Toronto Sceptres fans are advocating for more representation of their team’s logo and branding at Coca-Cola Coliseum, emphasizing the importance of decorating the venue to truly make it feel like home. Unlike other sports venues in the city, where home team logos and star player images are prominently displayed, the Sceptres feel a lack of recognition despite calling the Exhibition Place rink their home for two seasons.
Season-ticket holder Jessica Tang expressed disappointment at the minimal presence of Sceptres branding throughout the arena, which is predominantly adorned with branding for the Toronto Marlies, the AHL farm team of the NHL’s Maple Leafs. The absence of significant Sceptres representation has left fans feeling disconnected from their team’s identity.
Although the Sceptres have not directly addressed the issue with MLSE, who operates the venue, they appreciate the passionate support from their fans. Tang, acknowledging the long-standing presence of the Marlies at the rink, believes it is time to acknowledge the Sceptres’ substantial following and fan engagement.
As the WNBA’s Toronto Tempo prepares to share the space with the Marlies at Coca-Cola Coliseum, concerns about the lack of recognition for women’s sports have been raised. Ward 10 Coun. Ausma Malik, chair of the Exhibition Place board of governors, has taken steps to address these concerns by directing Exhibition Place’s CEO to enhance the sports team experience by better showcasing women’s sports, including displaying memorabilia and team logos.
Sceptres season-ticket holder Tammy DeGasperis-Symes echoed the sentiment that Coca-Cola Coliseum still does not feel like the team’s true home. She emphasized the importance of having the Sceptres logo alongside the Marlies on the ice to establish a sense of belonging and recognition for the hard work put in by the players and the league.
The push for increased recognition of the Toronto Sceptres at Coca-Cola Coliseum reflects a growing desire among fans and officials to celebrate and support women’s sports at the highest levels of competition.